War or peace?
According to a recent survey, two out of three British voters support military action against the terrorists responsible for the attack against America. And reports of massive troop build-ups and covert operations by special forces indicate they will get their wish. But what are the implications of action? Few people now believe we can have a strike against terrorist strongholds in Afghanistan without the threat of prolonged war. Some say it is inevitable and warranted, others plead for calm and diplomacy.
The news that the Taliban have enough weapons to fight a war for a decade has further divided opinion among iVillagers. Many of you urged caution, pleading for western leaders not to rush to hasty judgement or action.
'I pray that the powers that be show some sense and restraint. I do not think military action against an already crippled country is the best option,' stated one iVillager. 'I think every person who supports military action should ask themselves if they would be prepared to see their mother/sister/wife/husband/child die because "someone kicked America so they want to kick back harder." Step back and think - killing many innocent people, invariably children, will only result in more hatred. I ask everyone to pray for peace.'
Others agreed. 'If we take military action, we are showing ourselves as having no more respect for human life than the terrorists,' claimed one poster. 'Sure, they cannot be allowed to "get away with it", but there are other ways. Lines of communication and a cool head need to be kept at this challenging and difficult time.'
Another added: 'I don't think governments should behave like terrorists. We have no right to kill and injure people. In my opinion, no direct action should be taken without evidence.'
In contrast, other iVillagers were convinced military action was the only way forward. 'When Osama bin Laden directed the attack on America, he went too far,' said one furious correspondent. 'We have no option but to stand up for ourselves now. If terrorists get away with something that huge, we will be looking over our shoulders for the rest of our lives - and we can't live like that. The time to take a stand is now.'
'It's awful to think of the people who may be killed if the troops go in, but I simply don't see what else we can do,' admits another.
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